Sdr16c5 and Sdr16c6 Control a Dormant Pathway at a Bifurcation Point Between Meibogenesis and Sebogenesis
Studysummary This study on Sdr16c5/Sdr16c6-null mice found that inactivating these genes significantly increased Meibomian gland secretions and altered lipid profiles but had a subtle impact on sebogenesis, suggesting the genes control a bifurcation point in meibogenesis pathways.
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The study investigates the roles of Sdr16c5 and Sdr16c6 genes in lipid metabolism within Meibomian and sebaceous glands by analyzing lipid profiles in double knockout (DKO) mice. The inactivation of these genes led to increased lipid production and altered lipid composition in Meibomian glands, with a significant accumulation of shorter chain, sebaceous-type cholesteryl esters and wax esters, and an increase in monounsaturated and diunsaturated Meibomian-type wax esters. Despite these changes, the glands maintained normal levels of extremely long chain Meibomian-type lipids. The findings suggest that Sdr16c5 and Sdr16c6 control a bifurcation point in lipid biosynthesis, directing it towards either abnormal sebaceous-type or normal Meibomian-type lipid profiles, highlighting their critical role in lipid metabolism.
